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ABQ → LAX
Which side of the plane to sit from Albuquerque International Sunport (Albuquerque) to Los Angeles International Airport (Los Angeles)?
Right Side of the Plane
The right side offers spectacular views of the San Francisco Peaks near Flagstaff and the dramatic transition from the high desert of the Mojave into the coastal Los Angeles Basin.
Mount Taylor
A prominent stratovolcano and sacred Navajo peak that dominates the New Mexico skyline early in the flight.
San Francisco Peaks
Arizona's highest mountains, often snow-capped, rising sharply above the ponderosa pine forests near Flagstaff.
Mojave National Preserve
A vast expanse of desert wilderness featuring sand dunes and unique volcanic formations.
San Bernardino Mountains
The rugged mountain wall that separates the high desert from the dense urban sprawl of Southern California.
Downtown LA
A stunning view of the Los Angeles skyscrapers against the backdrop of the Hollywood Hills during the arrival.
Choose the right side for the most dramatic mountain scenery, especially the San Francisco Peaks. During winter months, these peaks provide a beautiful snowy contrast to the desert. Be aware that afternoon flights may face direct sun glare when heading west.
El Malpais
The 'Badlands' of New Mexico featuring ancient, jagged black lava flows and volcanic cinder cones.
Meteor Crater
The world's best-preserved meteorite impact site, appearing as a perfect, massive bowl in the desert floor.
Painted Desert
Vibrant, multi-colored rock layers stretching across the Arizona plateau south of the flight path.
Lake Havasu
A bright blue oasis on the Colorado River marking the border between Arizona and California.
SoFi Stadium
A clear view of the massive, futuristic stadium complex during the final descent into LAX.
Sit on this side to catch Meteor Crater about 30-40 minutes after takeoff. For evening flights, this side faces south, providing excellent golden hour lighting on the desert floor without the direct glare of the setting sun.
Distance: 1,088 km (676 miles)
Approximate Flight Time: 1 hr 27 min
Departure: ABQ (35.040199, -106.609001)
Arrival: LAX (33.94250107, -118.4079971)
Route Type: Domestic
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